Open for Business with Caution: COVID-19 Still Present

Point Edward, ON - As Lambton County enters Stage 3 on Friday July 24, residents are cautioned that COVID-19 is still present in the region. Although fewer restrictions may be in place, Stage 3 presents new considerations for our community.

Stage 3 includes the reopening of more businesses and settings where people may congregate, as well as increased social gathering sizes. Lambton Public Health is proactively reaching out to local bars and restaurants to address growing provincial concerns surrounding these settings. Lambton Public Health will work with businesses and organizations to prepare for safe opening in Stage 3.

"As individuals expand their social networks and gather in indoor spaces, there is increased likelihood of coming into contact with COVID-19 that needs to be considered," says Dr. Sudit Ranade, Lambton's Medical Officer of Health. "It is anticipated that local case numbers will increase during Stage 3 and public health safety measures must remain in place to support this transition."

While Lambton Public Health will continue to work with operators to advise them on how to reduce possible transmission risks in these settings, the public has a role to play in trying to minimize the likelihood of transmission. It is as important as ever for residents to remain diligent. Have a plan to avoid or limit interaction in high risk settings. The World Health Organization references the three C's as areas to avoid - crowded places, close-contact settings, and confined and enclosed spaces.

"These high-risk settings are amplified when the factors overlap," adds Ranade. "Minimize risk by staying home when sick, practicing physical distancing with others outside your social circle, practicing good hand hygiene, and wearing a mask if requested or if physical distancing is not possible. These public health safety measures are effective at limiting community spread of COVID-19 when utilized together."

Lambton Public Health is currently in the process of developing a targeted public awareness campaign to reinforce public health safety measures to support and inform Lambton County residents of how best to protect themselves and their loved ones. 

Visit LambtonPublicHealth.ca to learn more about local COVID-19 cases, information on physical distancing, safe use of masks, and good hand hygiene.

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